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"The plan was for 200 men to get out"
In an interview with the late RAF veteran Jack Lyon. he explained how the PoWs at Stalag Luft III were split into three groups as they carefully planned their escape.
Tornado Diamond Nine – from the first to the last
Following the disbandment of the Tornado, Group Captain (Rtd) Ray Goodall shares his memories of flying as a navigator in this much-loved aircraft as part of the Diamond Nine formation.
RAF personnel to scale London's Gherkin tower for charity
On 11 April 2019 a team of RAF fundraisers are planning to scale the heights of one of London's most iconic skyscrapers for the second time, in support of the RAF Benevolent Fund in commemoration of their centenary year.
Tribute to Jack Lyon
The RAF Benevolent Fund is saddened to hear of the loss of 101-year-old RAF veteran Jack Lyon, who passed away on Friday. Jack joined the RAF aged 23 and flew with Bomber Command during the Second World War. The Fund spoke to Jack in what could be his last interview as part of its commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Great Escape.
Press Release
RAF Sergeant raises funds for charity despite horrible injury
Sergeant Innes Manson has raised £1,395 for the RAF Benevolent Fund, despite being seriously injured during his Man Vs. Typhoon challenge at RAF Lossiemouth.
"Big X – one of the greatest of his generation"
The mastermind of the Great Escape was Squadron Leader Roger Bushell. Described by his Commanding Officer as 'one of the greatest of his generation', Bushell was born and brought up in South Africa but went to school in England, studied law at Cambridge and became a London barrister.
"I came down in snowdrifts"
Former Flight Lieutenant Charles Clarke was imprisoned in Stalag Luft III after being captured on enemy territory. Here Charles tells us about his capture.
The women who have inspired us
Staff at the RAF Benevolent Fund have been sharing stories of the women who have inspired them on International Women's Day. In this special blog, three of them talk about the women who have made an impact in their lives.
"Something's afoot!"
Former Flight Lieutenant Jack Lyon, 96, was 25 when he entered Stalag Luft III's north compound. He became involved in the Great Escape after being moved from the east to the north compound but, he says, escape information was strictly on a 'need to know' basis and he had no idea how truly audacious the plan was.
Students clock up 172km in tribute to RAF personnel killed during Second World War
A team of students from 57 Squadron at RAF Cranwell will pay tribute to personnel killed during the Second World War, at the same time as raising funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Press Release
